Some people claim that sending blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) during the breaks between the rak’ahs of Tarawih prayer is an innovation in religion. Is this true?

Sending peace and blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is one of the most virtuous deeds that is always accepted by Allah Almighty, as it paves the way for the acceptance of other acts of worship and the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) intercession for humanity [on the day of judgement].

Allah the Almighty commands [Muslims] to send blessings on the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) in absolute terms saying,
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace” (Quran, 33: 56).

This absolute command entails all times, places, people, and circumstances. Whoever claims, without evidence, that sending blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is prohibited at a particular time has restricted what Allah Almighty has made general because this involves restricting a general command and generalizing what is specific without evidence, which in itself constitutes a reprehensible innovation.

The Ruling

Based on the above,
it is permissible to send blessings upon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), or to engage in other forms of remembrance (dhikr), praise, or supplication during the intervals between the rak’ahs of Tarawih prayer. In fact, such acts are recommended and rewarded, and the one who performs them is following the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

Muslims, past and present, have followed this practice throughout the centuries without objection. Criticizing it is a form of a form of excessive strictness that is Allah nor His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) dislike.

And Allah the Almighty knows best.